Orbit launches new scheme to help grads build a career in housing

Wednesday, 08 November 2017

One of the UK’s leading housing associations has launched a new career development programme to encourage graduates to work in the housing sector. The first six successful applicants joined Orbit’s ‘Build Your Career’ programme in November on a two year contract.

During the next two years, each graduate will experience what it is like to work in a number of departments across the organisation, from housing and sales to finance and asset management. The graduates will receive development opportunities including coaching and mentoring and be part of a cross-functional group project to help drive innovation.

Craig Wilcockson, Executive Director of People at Orbit said: “The standard of applicants to our graduate scheme was extremely high. This scheme aims to find graduates who will bring fresh thinking and innovative ideas to Orbit as they work on key projects across the organisation, including the development and sustainment of our tenancies, customer safety and business effectiveness.

“The recruitment of graduates is an essential investment for the future success of Orbit, demonstrating our commitment to developing housing leaders of the future. With the housing sector currently a top priority on the government’s agenda, it presents an opportunity for young leaders to drive change and capitalise on exciting new opportunities.”

Launched in Orbit’s 50th year, ‘Build your career’ is a key mechanism in helping to achieve the organisation’s ambition to provide 10,000 training and employment opportunities by 2020.

Rosie Ward, a graduate tenancy officer at Orbit said: “Having worked previously for a homeless shelter I have seen first-hand how important it is to have a home. I’m really looking forward to being in a role where I can be proactive rather than reactive.

“This graduate scheme offers a great support network of like-minded people, as well as the chance to undertake placements in other departments. Graduate schemes help to build your confidence. You get a feel for your part in the organisation and how it fits in with everyone else.”